Tomatoes on the vine

Keep tomatoes tasty by storing them on the counter, vine side down. Transfer them to the refrigerator when fully ripe.

Tomatoes give off ethylene gas, so keep them away from other fruits on the counter to avoid over-ripening. Storing them vine side down will ensure that the delicate bases of the tomatoes do not get squished or bruised. Once fully ripe, place tomatoes in a bag and store them in the refrigerator to prolong shelf life.

To speed up the ripening process, store tomatoes in a paper bag with an apple.